31 Things to Do When You're Bored

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(Image credit: Markus Spiering/EyeEm)

You might find yourself with a lot more time on your hands these days. In another time, it could have been exciting to have nothing to do, but right now, it might make you feel frustrated, sad, and helpless. Spending many days at home without seeing your extended social network can take a toll on a lot of people. And when you've got a lot of time on your hands, you're most likely to resort to scrolling through your phone nonstop and getting sucked in the news cycle vortex.

But it doesn't have to be all that bad. It helps to look on the bright side of things. One, if you are able to stay at home with not much to do in the midst of a global pandemic, you could consider yourself fortunate. Not everyone has the luxury of that—many in essential industries and businesses are working hard to help others and keep things running.

Two, while it might seem like you have nothing to do, there's always something that can occupy your time, even if it's something as little as drinking a glass of water, reading a book, journaling, or stretching. Really savor those little moments right now. I find that it helps the time go by faster. For instance, last weekend, I took two hours to set up a new mirror jewelry cabinet in my apartment. I went about it in a very leisurely way, screwing everything in and hanging it, and then took my time sorting through my jewelry. Some of the stuff I'd had since high school, like bad costume jewelry, so it was fun to think back to the memories I had when wearing those pieces.

Anyway, what I'm saying is, choose your activities and savor them. Here's a list of some we recommend.

Entertain Yourself

1. Read a Book

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2. Binge-Watch a Show
(Image credit: Javier Diez/Stocksy)

Or watch a movie. Or better yet, watch that show you like to watch over and over again for extra comfort during a tough time. My go-to? Gilmore Girls.

3. Listen to a Podcast

4. Work on a Puzzle

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5. Play a Game With Friends
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But while practicing good social distancing by doing it over video chat, of course. While card games or board games are a bit tough to do virtually, you can play something like charades, Heads Up, or Pictionary. Get creative!

6. Craft or Color

7. Learn Hand-Lettering or Calligraphy

8. Do a Crossword

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9. Learn a New Language
(Image credit: Duolingo)

I mean, why not? You might not have this much free time without many social obligations ever again in your lifetime. You've got options, too, like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel. Allez-y! Vas-y!

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10. Tour a Museum
(Image credit: JGI/Tom Grill/Getty Images)

Yes, museums and cultural institutions are closed right now, but that shouldn't stop you from soaking up some art or a cool photography exhibit. Many museums, art galleries, zoos, and more are offering virtual exhibits.

Set Aside Time for Self-Care

11. Give Yourself an At-Home Manicure

12. Drink Water

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13. Meditate
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We've written about the benefits of meditation for sleep and symptoms of anxiety and depression before, so it's definitely one of the best things you can do for your self-care. Plus, your mental health might need a little bit more TLC at this moment.

14. Take a Bath or Shower

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15. Get Some Fresh Air
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Just stepping outside for a few minutes can really clear your head and make you feel better.

16. Journal

17. Put on a Face Mask

Get Social

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18. Call Your Mom
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Or dad, or siblings, or friends. Whoever it is, pick up the phone and give them a call. As a millennial, I know at lot of us are strictly only into texting, but just hearing someone's voice can boost your mood.

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19. Schedule a Hangout With Friends
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Virtual happy hours are the thing to do right now. If you haven't done so yet, schedule one with your friends. It will be fun to see everyone's faces in one screen and (hopefully) talk about things not related to what's happening at the moment.

20. Write a Letter or an Email to Someone

Get Moving

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21. Go for a Walk
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Your legs will thank you. Just make sure you're practicing safe social distancing.

22. Do an At-Home Workout

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23. Stretch
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If you're reading this right now with your shoulders hunched, or lying on your bed in an uncomfortable position, you probably need a good stretch. Take a few minutes to stretch out your whole body. It's ideal to try to do it a couple of times per day.

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24. Walk Around Your Home
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If you don't want to go outside, you can take a stroll around your place. Yes, even if you're working with a studio apartment. Do it with mindfulness, and you'll get some steps in.

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25. Dance It Out
(Image credit: Lucas Ottone/Stocksy)

Just like celeb trainers bringing their workouts to the masses on Instagram, many professional dancers are also hosting dance parties on social media or on video conference platforms. Tune in to one of those, or go at it on your own. Turn on your favorite song and just let the music take over.

Cross Things Off Your To-Do List

26. Clean

27. Organize Your Closet

28. Make a New Dish

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29. Rearrange Your Home Décor
(Image credit: Ali Harper/Stocksy)

The scenery can get a bit old when you're spending so much time at home. So give it a spruce-up by moving things around or redecorating with stuff you already have.

30. Change Your Sheets

31. Water Your Plants

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.

In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).

She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.